Orioles sign Ford to minor league deal; other notes

WASHINGTON - The Orioles have signed outfielder Lew Ford to a minor league deal, and he's starting in center field tonight for Triple-A Norfolk. Ford, 35, hasn't played in the majors since batting .233 in 55 games with the Twins in 2007. He played in Japan in 2008 and Mexico in 2010. He also had three stints with the independent Long Island Ducks, batting .333 with four homers and 14 RBIs in 19 games this season. The Orioles are trying to fill out Norfolk's roster. Infielder Brandon Waring has joined the Tides from Double-A Bowie and is starting at third base tonight. Pitcher Brandon Erbe was activated from the disabled list and assigned to Single-A Frederick. Left-hander Zach Britton will make his third extended spring training start on Monday, followed by a minor league rehab assignment. The Orioles must decide on an affiliate. Norfolk, Bowie, Frederick, and low Single-A Delmarva are home on May 26, so the choices are plentiful. Third baseman Mark Reynolds (oblique) is close to starting baseball-related activities. He's slightly ahead of outfielder Endy Chavez (intercostal). Catcher Taylor Teagarden (lower back) continues to feel better and could soon begin baseball-related activities. Still no word on whether outfielder Nolan Reimold (herniated disk) will need a second epidural injection. He's supposed to join the Orioles in Washington tonight.